In an indication of a possible post-poll understanding with Shiv Sena, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that BJP could consider joining hands again with its estranged ally if the situation so demanded.

Describing breaking of the 25-year-long saffron alliance in Maharashtra as most "unfortunate and painful," Gadkari, when asked about a post poll tie-up (in a hung Assembly scenario) with the Sena, said, "If the situation arises, we can certainly think of that. Shiv Sena has been our ally bound together on the base of Hindutva."